I am contemplating to give my seven a slightly modified body. My area of interest is improved aerodynamics and I am looking for ideas to fair-in :

1) rear fenders,
A sort of beveled shape that would deflect the wind away from the fenders in the Elfin V8 style

2)the windshield. What can we do? Would a hardtop be worth the trouble?

What do U think?
Thanks.

Phil

[Edited on 31/10/07 by Philippe]

Phil,

A more aerodynamic body is definately achievable, it's just going to depend how much time you want to spend on it.

Bodywork enclosing the front suspension would be a start, so (and these aren't very good examples) have a look at things like the Dutton Phaeton (UK kitcar from early 80's) and the Morgan Aero 8. Then you could go to the mainstream manufacturers for inspiration such as Mazda MX5. Obviously you'll have to make changes to the chassis so the body will fit.

Do you need a roof (will it be removeable); you may want doors - conventional, suicide/gulwing/scissor/drop. In the UK, that would add quite a bit to the build as door catches etc need to be to regulations, so you'd be wise to check local regs. Then again, will you be able to get in/out with doors/roof - for all I know, you may be 8' tall

I'm toying with the idea of a roof, but I need to get the rest of my cage (ie front hoop and front/rear bar connections) done, then I may have removeable screen and roof (roof will have integral wipers with simple plug in connection to pre-wired switch).

If you have built your chassis, take some pics and print them large. Then sketch over them. You never know, there might be a masterpiece in the waiting

ATB

Simon

quote:

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Originally posted by Philippe
I am contemplating to give my seven a slightly modified body.

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This was my thread a few days ago relating to a different style of low screen (i.e. no wipers) to make it more aerodynamic

http://www.locostbuilders.co.uk/viewthread.php?tid=76594

Have a look at this totally self built Car, built by a friend of mine who is an aircraft engineer.

http://www.rafmsa.raf.mod.uk/gallery2/25.jpg


It is an evolution of 5 he has built over the years.

Thank you guys for your contributions. There are many ways indeed to improve both the look and airflow of a locost and some of you or your friends have approached the matter in the most professional way...

At this point I have a rolling chassis and this is my first build so my ambitions are limited. I have looked with admiration at the work Donkervoort has done on its SR06 (Hockenheim 2006) and its full body. I am intrigued too at the Elfin V8.

At this point I am concentrating my efforts on fairing the sides in the Elfin style. I may try to make a windshield in two panels more reclined backwards....

We will see. I will keep you posted.
Thanks again.

Phil.

[Edited on 31/10/07 by Philippe]

As I go , I will through a few pictures of modified sevenesques
Rescued attachment donkervoort.jpg

Have a Look at the Phoenix, Fury and Stylus kit cars if you want an enclosed aerodynamic body.

quote:

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Originally posted by MikeRJ
Have a Look at the Phoenix, Fury and Stylus kit cars if you want an enclosed aerodynamic body.

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That fairing does a little bit, but is barely worth it unless you have cleaned up the front end with inboard dampers etc. I tried it in the wind tunnel with a 7 and the benefit is marginal.

By fairing in the rear arches you're further exaggerating the 'backwards aerofoil' shape of the standard 7. It's better than not doing it, sure, but unfortunately it's chicken-feed in the grand scheme of things. Plus, it makes it harder to get in & out!

[Edited on 2/11/07 by Rob Palin]